Stress Discussed

For many people, everyday life can be both joyful and stressful. The VA has launched a new campaign called "Stress Discussed" to better assist Veterans in managing stress for improved health. As part of this initiative, the VA now offers a checklist for patients to complete before their scheduled appointments. This checklist helps patients identify their current stress levels and facilitates discussions with their primary physician. 

According to an article published on the VA.gov website, chronic stress can have a serious impact on both physical and mental health. Therefore, understanding and managing chronic stress is crucial. Below are some common effects of chronic stress on health, along with effective strategies to combat it. 

The Effects of Chronic Stress:

• Mental Health: Prolonged stress can lead to anxiety, depression and other mood disorders. It can also exacerbate post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms.
• Physical Health: Chronic stress is linked to various health issues, including heart disease, high blood pressure and weakened immune function.
• Digestive Problems: Stress can lead to gastrointestinal problems such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and digestive discomfort.
• Sleep Disturbances: Difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep are common consequences of chronic stress.

NMVAHCS Registered Nurse and Stress Distressed Campaign Lead, Deborah Meyer suggests empowering our Veterans with the tools they need. 

“If we equip our Veterans with knowledge about the symptoms related to stress, we can address the root causes of their stress rather than just managing the symptoms that might be contributing to their worries," said Ms. Meyer. 

Effective Stress Management involves taking care of your body and mind, practicing relaxation techniques and connecting with others. 

• Mindfulness and Meditation: Practicing mindfulness and meditation can help individuals reduce stress and enhance emotional well-being.
• Sleep: Get enough sleep by going to bed and waking up at the same time each day. 
• Counseling and Therapy: Professional support from therapists, psychologists or counselors can provide effective coping strategies.
• Exercise and Physical Activity: Regular physical activity helps release endorphins, improves mood and reduces stress.
• Social Support: Building a strong support network can provide a buffer against stress.

There are also relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and biofeedback, which can help manage stress. Additionally, Veterans have access to community resources, including the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. This service offers free and confidential emotional support and crisis counseling, available 24/7 by calling 9-8-8 (press 1 after the prompt if you are a Veteran). Engaging in self-care activities, such as pursuing hobbies, relaxation, and taking time for oneself, is also essential.

While stress can significantly impact health, with the right tools and support, Veterans can lead healthier, more balanced lives. The Stress Discussed campaign aims to empower Veterans to transform everyday stress into a more manageable aspect of their lives.